Tag Archives: motorcycles

Harley to sell children’s electric bicycles

Harley-Davidson wants children riding electric “Harley-Davidson” bicycles so they become “the next generation” of riders. They hope to achieve this by selling electric bicycles through selected US dealerships.

The move follows their acquisition, for an undisclosed amount, of Californian children’s electric bicycle company StaCyc, which stands for “stability cycles”.

StaCyc will continue to sell their bikes in the US through powersports dealerships, including 29 Harley-Davidson dealerships, as well as online and in specialty bicycle shops.StaCyc electric bicycle

However, from the third quarter of this year, selected US Harley dealerships will sell the electric bicycles rebranded as Harleys.

Harley-Davidson Australia has not advised whether the bikes will be sold here.

StaCyc electric bicyclesStaCyc electric bicycle

StaCyc started in 2016 and has a range of 12-and 16-inch-wheel electric EDRIVE bikes priced from $US649 ($A915) to $US699 ($A985).

There is no word on whether they will cost more when rebranded as Harley-Davidsons.

Electric portfolio

Harley say the acquisition expands their electric portfolio and reinforces their “commitment to lead in the electrification of motorcycling”.

They will release their first electric motorcycle, the LiveWire, this August in the US at $US29,790 and in Australia next year for more than $A40,000.

Harley electric LiveWire Harley and Indian announce 2018 sales results
Harley LiveWire

Harley also plan a range of e-bikes (pedal-assisted electric bicycles) and scooters in the next couple of years.

In March 2018, the Milwaukee brand acquired a stake in electric dirt-bike company Alta Motors, but later relinquished it after gaining key technology on batteries and electric motors.

Instead, they invested in their own R&D centre in Silicon Valley for electric vehicle research.

Alta Motors went bust in October and Canadian company BRP, which makes the Can-Am Spyder, has now bought a selection of its assets, including intellectual property, patents and some physical assets.

Brand loyaltyStaCyc electric bicycle

Perhaps Harley will also gain some technical know-how from StaCyc as it did in the short-lived Alta Motors deal.

However, the StaCyc acquisition seems to be more about building brand loyalty from young cyclists in the hope they will become Harley motorcyclists.

Harley-Davidson Senior Vice President of Marketing and Brand, Heather Malenshek, says StaCyc “shares the same vision we have for building the next generation of riders globally”.

“We’ve said previously that we believe electric vehicles are where global mobility is headed and they hold great appeal for existing riders as well as opportunity to build new riders,” Heather says.

“As we lead in the electrification of motorcycling, we’re demonstrating our commitment by delivering a full range of electric products for a vast audience who will be inspired to imagine and discover what is possible from Harley-Davidson.”

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorbike Racing Legends Past and Present

Who are the greatest rider legends of all time, and do you agree?

Motorcycle Hall of Fame: Top Riders of All Time

What criteria can be used to judge the greatest motorcycle racers of all time? The number of titles won is a start, but there are many more aspects to what makes a truly great rider. Style, skill, attitude and charisma are all part of what contributes to a riding legend. Motorcycle racing is one of the most exciting and high-octane sports to bet on, and luckily these days there are plenty of online odds offered on races.

Any list is subjective and open to debate, but here’s our breakdown of three of the most legendary and memorable riders, all of whom have more than earned their place in the motorcycle hall of fame.

1. Giacomo AgostiniGiacomo Agostini Ago AGV tribute helmet

Agostini – known as Ago – is a legend of motorcycle racing, having had a career ranging from rider firebrand to Formula 1, and a successful stint as a team manager. The Italian legend won his first title at the age of 21, and his career accelerated from there. Agostini was noted for winning no less than seven successive Isle of Man TT titles, and the same number of Ulster Grand Prix races, during a time that non-British riders were a huge rarity in these competitions. Ago remains unbeaten to this day.

Agostini went on to win prestigious races such as the Daytona 200 and 350cc World Championship, winning his final world championship in 1975. He later had a short career in Formula 1 and then a longer stretch as a team manager. His dominance on the circuit, coupled with his good looks and charm, have cemented his place as one of the greatest of all time.

2. Mike Hailwood

Mike Hailwood
Mike Hailwood

A contemporary and competitor of Ago, Mike the Bike will be remembered not only as one of the greatest riders of all time, but as a selfless hero. Hailwood won countless trophies, including no less than twelve Isle of Man TTs, but it is an event during his subsequent Formula 1 career that won him the George Medal for bravery. In 1973, after colliding with Clay Regazzoni, Hailwood ran back to pull his fellow driver from his burning car. Hailwood was tragically killed in a road traffic accident, along with one of his children, in 1981.

3. Valentino RossiValentino Rossi and Ducati get video games fans

Ago and Hailwood may be heroes of the past, but Rossi is still startlingly relevant, even at the age of forty. Loved just as much for his quirky and outgoing character as his stunning racing record, ‘The Doctor’ continues to entertain and enthral motorcycle racing fans across the globe.

As sports betting increases in popularity, many of us who play mobile casino games are branching out into placing wagers on our favourite sporting events. Online odds on Rossi and other bikers are available from some of the biggest and most reputable sportsbooks in the business. Rossi has a history of adversarial showdowns, most recently with Marc Marquez. Resources like https://mobile-casino.ca/odds can keep it interesting when sizing up the online odds.

Of course, there are (and have been) plenty more riding greats in the world of motorcycle racing. Kenny Roberts, representing the USA, and the great Australian Mick Doohan could easily have made it on to this list, amongst many others.

Ago and Mike the Bike both went into Formula 1 in their later years, and that seems to be a popular transition for many riders. Until fairly recently, fans who want to put money on racing outcomes would have to wait for their motorcycle heroes to make the jump. These days, anyone who is up to date with the best casino games odds can also find online odds for motorcycle races.

Rossi’s next season begins this month in Qatar, as the start of the 2019 MotoGP season. His Yamaha team mate is Maverick Viñales, who won best rookie award in the MotoGP class in 2015.

(Sponsored post)

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Braaap Wholesale faces import penalty

Small-capacity motorcycle wholesale business Braaap Wholesale has gone into liquidation and faces penalties over breaching import regulations.

Braaap Wholesale is the wholesale arm of Braaap Motorcycles which is still operating.

Braaap founder and Braaap Wholesale director Brad Smith and general manager Toby Wilkins pleaded guilty in Launceston Magistrate Court this week to six counts of approval for the placement of identification plates and three counts of importation of vehicles requiring modification

It stems from the import of 82 motorcycles from China in 2016 which were fitted with plates.

Braaap Wholesale took a deposit from a NSW company for the bikes and shipped them to him pending a Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities audit.

An audit of Braaap Wholesale’s Victorian and Tasmanian warehouses also found bikes fitted with parts not specified on the Identification Plate Approval, including having different head lamps, direction indicators, and back and rear break pads. 

Braaap Wholesale’s defence lawyer told court that although the equipment didn’t comply with the Identification Plate Approval (IPA), it complied with Australian Design Rules. 

Magistrate Ken Stanton will hand down his sentence on March 19. 

Toby says he would “prefer not to add personal comment while it’s still before the courts”.

“I can say though – Braaap has the upmost respect for DIRD and the Motor Vehicles Act and have worked tirelessly with the department over the past few years to ensure compliance is met and exceeded,” he says.

“It’s also important for people to be aware that there was no risk to public safety with any of the issues identified.

“The issues before the court were issues that were identified prior to vehicles being released to market and once all relevant checks had been performed the vehicles and parts in question were found to be in accordance with the ADRs and passed.”

Braaap Wholesale

Braap Moto 3
Braaap Moto 3

Toby points out that the entity tied to this issue is not Braaap Motorcycles, but Braaap Wholesale which has been a non-trading entity for some time and went into liquidation in August 2018.

“I’m still with Braaap and we are forging forward,” he says.

“Braaap Wholesale was the wholesale arm of the company that dealt with IPAs and dealers etc.

“Due to the past few years it’s paid its toll on this entity. We are working with the administrators though and plan to pull it back out of liquidation.

“Braaap is still trading and Braaap Frankston is still open, Braaap Vietnam has also been launched and they will have bikes shortly (just finishing off emissions testing). 

Braaap history

Braaap fraud
Braaap ST-250 recalled

In 2005, at the age of 17, Brad sourced factories in China to make bikes to his specifications.

He was named 2008 Australian Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Tasmania’s Young Australian of the Year in 2010 while the company won the Australian Ret­ailers Association’s Small Business of the Year four times.

In 2017, Braaap released a range of new models and in 2018 introduced the electric MotoE electric motorcycle.

Braaap MotoE electric motorcycle
Braaap MotoE electric motorcycle

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Harley-Davidson Electra Glide is a dressed-down dresser

Harley-Davidson has stripped $1500 off the price of the Street Glide and deleted the distracting music infotainment system to create the new dressed-down Electra Glide Standard dresser.

It arrives in “Vivid Black” at $34,495 ride-away ($NZ37,995) which compares with the Street Glide at $36,995.

Despite deleting the infotainment system, the Electra Glide Standard still has a lot of features such as electronic cruise control, hand-adjustable emulsion-technology rear shock absorbers, 49mm front forks with dual bending valve suspension, and Reflex Linked Brembo Brakes with optional ABS.

“The deletion of the infotainment system enhances the light touch and leaves the rider to focus on connecting with the road,” Harley says.

It is still powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine.Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard

Dressed-down dresser

Harley saying guru Brad Richards calls it a “dressed-down dresser”

“To express the stripped-back essence of the Electra Glide Standard, we focused on finishes that were simple, timeless, and fundamental to the Harley-Davidson’s touring line. Chrome was added to key components and complimented by polished and blacked out parts, for example,” he says.

“The rocker, cam, and derby covers are finished with chrome to emphasize the V-Twin shape of the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine. In addition, they add a dose of nostalgia that draws a through-line all the way back to the first Electra Glide.”

Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard tech specsHarley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard

PRICING 5

  • VIVID BLACK$34,495 AUD / $37,995NZD

ENGINE

  • ENGINE 2Milwaukee-Eight® 107
  • BORE100 mm
  • STROKE111 mm
  • DISPLACEMENT1,745 cc
  • COMPRESSION RATIO10.0:1
  • FUEL SYSTEMElectronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
  • EXHAUSTChrome, 2-1-2 dual exhaust with tapered mufflers

DIMENSIONS

  • LENGTH2,400 mm
  • SEAT HEIGHT, UNLADEN680 mm
  • GROUND CLEARANCE120 mm
  • RAKE (STEERING HEAD) (DEG)26
  • TRAIL170 mm
  • WHEELBASE1,625 mm
  • TYRES, FRONT SPECIFICATIONBW 130/80B17 65H
  • TYRES, REAR SPECIFICATIONBW 180/65B16 81H
  • FUEL CAPACITY22.7 l
  • OIL CAPACITY (W/FILTER)4.9 l
  • WEIGHT, AS SHIPPED354 kg
  • WEIGHT, IN RUNNING ORDER372 kg
  • LUGGAGE CAPACITY -VOLUME0.064 m3

PERFORMANCE

  • ENGINE TORQUE TESTING METHODEC 134/2014
  • ENGINE TORQUE 3150 Nm
  • ENGINE TORQUE (RPM)3,250
  • LEAN ANGLE, RIGHT (DEG.)31
  • LEAN ANGLE, LEFT (DEG.)29

DRIVETRAIN

  • PRIMARY DRIVEChain, 34/46 ratio
  • GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 1ST9.593
  • GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 2ND6.65
  • GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 3RD4.938
  • GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 4TH4
  • GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 5TH3.407
  • GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 6TH2.875

CHASSIS

  • WHEELS, FRONT TYPE 7Impeller Cast Aluminum
  • WHEELS, REAR TYPEImpeller Cast Aluminum
  • BRAKES, CALIPER TYPE32 mm, 4-piston fixed front and rear

ELECTRIC

  • LIGHTS (AS PER COUNTRY REGULATION), INDICATOR LAMPS 6High beam, running lights, directional lights, low oil pressure, engine diagnostics, neutral, cruise control, accessory, battery, gear indication, security system, 6-speed, low fuel warning, ABS, miles to empty display, fog/aux lamp indicator
  • GAUGESGauges styled to complement each vehicle. Display features odometer, trip A, trip B, range to empty and gear indicator; and larger tell-tale indicators.

Read more at https://www.harley-davidson.com/au/en/motorcycles/2019/touring/electra-glide-standard/detailed-specs-and-pricing.html#iygWttyPP3pykAZl.99

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Braaap Wholesale bosses to be sentenced

Small-capacity motorcycle wholesale business Braaap Wholesale has gone into liquidation and two executives face penalties over breaching import regulations.

Braaap Wholesale is the wholesale arm of Braaap Motorcycles which is still operating.

Founder Brad Smith and general manager Toby Wilkins pleaded guilty in Launceston Magistrate Court this week to six counts of approval for the placement of identification plates and three counts of importation of vehicles requiring modification

It stems from the import of 82 motorcycles from China in 2016 which were fitted with plates and sold to a NSW company for about $1 million before they had complied with the Australian Standards.

An audit of Braaap’s Victorian and Tasmanian warehouses also found bikes fitted with parts not specified on the Identification Plate Approval, including having different head lamps, direction indicators, and back and rear break pads. 

Braaap’s defence lawyer told court that although the equipment didn’t comply with the Identification Plate Approval (IPA), it complied with Australian Design Rules. 

Magistrate Ken Stanton will hand down his sentence on March 19. 

Toby says he would “prefer not to add personal comment while it’s still before the courts”.

“I can say though – Braaap has the upmost respect for DIRD (the Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities) and the Motor Vehicles Act and have worked tirelessly with the department over the past few years to ensure compliance is met and exceeded,” he says.

“It’s also important for people to be aware that there was no risk to public safety with any of the issues identified.

“The issues before the court were issues that were identified prior to vehicles being released to market and once all relevant checks had been performed the vehicles and parts in question were found to be in accordance with the ADRs and passed.”

Braaap Wholesale

Braap Moto 3
Braaap Moto 3

Toby points out that the entity tied to this issue is not Braaap Motorcycles, but Braaap Wholesale which has been a non-trading entity for some time and went into liquidation in August 2018.

“I’m still with Braaap and we are forging forward,” he says.

“Braaap Wholesale was the wholesale arm of the company that dealt with IPAs and dealers etc.

“Due to the past few years it’s paid its toll on this entity. We are working with the administrators though and plan to pull it back out of liquidation.

“Braaap is still trading and Braaap Frankston is still open, Braaap Vietnam has also been launched and they will have bikes shortly (just finishing off emissions testing). 

Braaap history

Braaap fraud
Braaap ST-250 recalled

In 2005, at the age of 17, Brad sourced factories in China to make bikes to his specifications.

He was named 2008 Australian Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Tasmania’s Young Australian of the Year in 2010 while the company won the Australian Ret­ailers Association’s Small Business of the Year four times.

In 2017, Braaap released a range of new models and in 2018 introduced the electric MotoE electric motorcycle.

Braaap MotoE electric motorcycle
Braaap MotoE electric motorcycle

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Air hoses that frustrate some riders

Riders with spoked wheels on their bikes are frustrated at not being able to get some service station air hoses to fit their metal valve stems.

The owner of a Queensland service station says he suspects one rider became so frustrated he found a solution to the problem by bending their air hose nozzle.

“I’ve often seen riders struggling to get the nozzle on to the valve stem on motorcycles,” the servo owner says.

“I suppose this works better now because of the angle, but I’m surprised he didn’t break it as it’s only made of brass.”

Riders should be aware that service stations are not legally bound to provide the free air service. Some have chosen to withdraw the service because of vandalism and accidental breakage.

Air your grievance

Air hoses are made to suit cars with flexible valve stems. They don’t suit all types of motorcycle wheels.

Riders with mag wheels on their bikes can start laughing now …

However, it’s no laughing matter for some riders with spoked wheels on their bikes.

In fact, it can be downright infuriating.  On several occasions I’ve ridden to several service stations in search of a hose that will fit.

The worst offenders are the old-style air hoses with the pressure indicator on the air hose. These have a long metal nozzle which is at the wrong angle to fit on the rigid metal valve stem of spoked wheels.air hoses tyre pressure gauge

Modern flexible air hoses with the pressure indicated on a digital screen on a fixed post are better. air hoses tyre pressure gauge

But even some of those are too stiff to bend enough to fit over the perpendicular valve stem.

Most spoked-wheeled bikes only have one disc brake on the left of the front wheel so you access the valve stem from the right. But even these can be difficult to get an old-style air hose to fit.

If your bike has dual front discs like the Ducati GT1000 I once owned or the Triumph Scrambler 1200 I tested recently, it is almost impossible to fit any type of air hose.

Some bikes with spoked wheels have large holes in the wheel hub so you can thread the air hose through the middle to access the valve stem in a straight line.

Otherwise, you have to thread the hose through the spokes wheels and even then it can be a difficult angle.

I’ve copped bloodied knuckles trying to get the right connection on the valve stem.

Meanwhile, as you try fitting it, the connector triggers the valve and lets out precious air pressure.

After struggling in vain, I’ve sometimes left servos with less pressure in my tyres!

L-shaped valves

air hoses tyre pressure gauge
Replacement L-shaped valve stem

Apart from the vandal’s less-than-ideal solution, you can fit L-shaped valve stems to your wheels for easy access by any style of air hose.

I swapped the very heavy spoked wheels of the Ducati for beautiful, lightweight Blackstone TEK carbon fibre wheels which came with convenient L-shaped valve stems.

Blackstone TEK Black Diamond carbon fibre wheels for Ducati GT1000
90-degree valve stem on Blackstone TEK Black Diamond carbon fibre wheels for my Ducati GT1000

It’s surprising bikes with spoked wheels don’t come from the factory with these right-angle stems.

You can buy L-shaped stem replacements for a few dollars or about $25 fitted.

However, make sure the tyre fitter re-balances the wheel after they are fitted because the stems can have a slight affect on balance that could lead to handling problems.

Even a minor variation in rotating weight can lead to dangerous vibrations.

air hoses tyre pressure gauge
L-shaped valve stem adaptors

A cheaper option is to buy an L-shaped valve stem adaptor that screws on to your valve stem. They are small enough to fit in your pocket and only cost a few dollars. 

Which air hoses are the most accurate? Click here for details.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Which air hoses are the most accurate?

If you are precious about your motorcycle tyre pressures, you should carry an accurate portable pressure gauge as many service station air hoses are damaged or inaccurate.

That’s because they are often abused by motorists.

Modern flexible air hoses with the digital pressure display on a separate fixed post are more accurate and less likely to be abused and damaged.air hoses tyre pressure gauge accurate

Service stations are not obliged to provide the free service and some have chosen to withdraw the service because of vandalism and accidental breakage.

An RACQ survey found almost 10% of servos had malfunctioning air hoses.

Since many don’t even bother to refill the paper dispensers at the pump or wash down diesel spills on the forecourt, it is a tough call to expect them to also fix broken air hoses.

I surveyed several service stations in my area and found the indicated tyre pressures on air hoses varied as much as 3psi/20kpa. That might not seem like a lot, but it can affect handling.

Click here to read more about correct tyre pressures.

Accurate pressure check

After inflating my tyres to the pressure indicated on the servo’s air hose, I usually check the reading against a simple pencil-style pressure gauge I received free as an RACQ member.

It has the pound-force per square inch (psi) reading on two sides of the stem that juts out and kilopascals (kpa) on the other two sides.

It’s not the most accurate gauge, but it’s often better than the servo air hoses.

They are cheap at just a few dollars and only the size of a pen, so you can carry one in your jacket pocket.air hoses tyre pressure gauge accurate

You can also buy small digital tyre pressure gauges, but remember you only get what you pay for. We’ve used some el-cheapo units which are useless.

Buy a well-known and trusted brand name, like Oxford, and be prepared to pay $30 or more.

air hoses tyre pressure gauge accurate
Rocky Creek pressure gauge

The most accurate I have used is this Rocky Creek Designs gauge which is an analogue dial on a flexible hose. It’s easy to read and shows highly accurate and detailed readings, but it’s a bit bulky to carry around on a motorbike.

Compressors

If you don’t trust the service station pumps, you can buy an air compressor and do it yourself.

Air compressors that plug into your mains power supply are bulky, but handy for blowing up the kids’ jumping castle, air mattresses, etc.

air hoses tyre pressure gauge accurate
Rocky Creek Designs 12V air compressor

If you want something small and portable to take with you on your next motorcycle adventure there are many 12V models available.

Having trouble getting the air hose on your valve stems? Click here for a solution.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Automated cars ‘increase SMIDSY crashes’

Hi-tech automated cars make drivers lazy and less likely to see motorcycles which could lead to an increase in Sorry Mate, I Didn’t See You (SMIDSY) crashes, a new study has found.

Rice University and Texas Tech University studied 60 drivers over a 40-minute drive in a “simulated partially automated vehicle” and found their hazard perception decreased.

Partially automated vehicles are those with sensors that detect hazards and apply drive aids such as steering and brake application to avoid a collision.

These systems don’t totally take over, so the driver need to monitor for hazards and react to them by taking avoidance action.

Automated complacency

However, the study found that drivers in these vehicles depend on the tech and become complacent, losing attention to the road ahead and its various hazards.

The study found that “safe operation becomes less likely when the demands associated with monitoring automation increase and as a drive extends in duration”.

So the longer they drive, the worse their inattention and complacency becomes.

“This study also supports the notion that vigilance performance in partially automated vehicles is likely due to driver overload,” according to the study, “Driver Vigilance in Automated Vehicles: Effects of Demands on Hazard Detection Performance,” in the publication Human Factors.

It’s not good news for motorcyclists who are already largely unseen by motorists.

And as more and more tech is included in cars, it could get worse, says study lead author Eric Greenlee, an assistant professor of psychological sciences at Texas Tech.

“The bottom line is, until automated driving systems are completely reliable and can respond in all situations, the driver must stay alert and be prepared to take over,” he says.

“These vehicles have a lot to offer, but we’re a long way from being able to detect everything going on,” the researchers say.

“Until that day comes, we hope this research will raise awareness about the limitations of automated cars and their operators.”Riders ‘risk cancer from autonomous cars positive automated

Death knell

However, a 2017 US report by a motorcycle industry panel, cleverly called Give a Shift, says automated vehicles could kill off motorcycling.

“There is a “very real risk of motorcycling being completely cut out of the conversation for future vehicle infrastructure systems,” the group concludes in its report.

“As this (autonomous vehicles) technology grows, contemporary motorcycles will be even further elevated into higher risk categories in the eyes of traffic systems technologies, insurance companies, city planners and autonomous vehicle manufacturers who currently own and direct the conversation.

“The panel feels strongly that the single biggest threat to motorcycling overall (particularly in urban and higher density environments) will be the incompatibility between autonomous vehicles and existing motorcycles.”

The group says the technology will push self-operated vehicles such as motorcycles “out of the transportation matrix”.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Erik Buell unveils Fuell electric bikes

Innovative motorcycle engineer Erik Buell has unveiled his first electric machines, the Fuell Fluid e-bike and Flow electric motorcycle.

Erik has had a rags-to-riches-to-rags story in motorcycling that keeps on surprising.

The former Harley-Davidson engineer developed the Buell brand in 1983, sold 49% to Harley in 1993 and Harley took over in 2003.

Erik Buell and MotorBikeWriter predictions ebr
MBW with Erik Buell in happier times

Harley axed the brand in October 2009 when the GFC hit, but Erik relaunched as Erik Buell Racing (EBR) just a month later.

EBR ceased production in April 2015 and was bought by Michigan company Liquid Asset Partners in February 2016.

It returned to small-scale production in March 2017 and went into liquidation in June 2017.

New beginningsFuell Flow and Fluid electric motorcycle

In April last year, Erik joined new electric motorcycle company, Vanguard Spark, which had just partnered with Monday Motorbikes.

Vanguard Spark was formed by Alfa Romeo F1 principal Francois-Xavier Terny of Vanguard Motorcycles and Frédéric Vasseur, founder of electric Formula E race car company Spark Racing Technology.

Now they have changed their name to Fuell, which is a clever reference to Buell, even though their machines have no fuel!

We could have expected the founders’ racing genes to flow through to their products.

However, they have unveiled the Flow “urban mobility” electric motorcycle and the Fluid pedal-assisted e-bike.

The bikes are not available for test ride until they are fully revealed on April 23, but will be on show in New York for a month to investors, journalists and “influencers”.

FlowFuell Flow City electric motorcycle

Flow is an electric motorcycle available in 11kW (125cc equivalent) or 35kW versions.

There is no pricing information or technical details available yet such as range, but they keep referring to it as a “city” bike.

As expected from Erik whose Buell motorcycles had innovative features such as oil in the swingarm, fuel in the frame and peripheral brake discs, the Flow does have technical innovations.

Fuell say it has a proprietary wheel-motor1, connected dashboard and a low centre of gravity.Fuell Flow City electric motorcycle

It has conventional upside-down forks, a mono shock rear and no clutch lever.

That means it will be twist-and-go like a scooter or the coming Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycle.

FluidFuell Flow and Fluid electric motorcycle

In a smart move, the company is also producing an e-bike called Fluid.

E-bikes are rapidly growing in popularity, particularly in Europe.

This pedal-assisted e-bike can be ridden a total of 200km without paddling thanks to its two removable batteries with a total of 1000Wh.

Fuell Flow and Fluid electric motorcycle

It has 100Nm of torque and is virtually maintenance-free with its carbon belt and internal hub gears.

Fluid will be offered as a Pedelec with a maximum speed of 32km/h (20mph) or S-Pedelec (45km/h-28mph).

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Triumph Scrambler 1200 ride review

Triumph’s Scrambler 1200 is less of a neo-classic scrambler than it is a viable low-weight alternative to the over-litre, top-heavy adventure bikes.

The British company has loaded the bike with all the latest hi-tech mod cons and given it true all-road credentials, while still remaining a stunning neo-classic in design.

And unlike most hideously ugly utilitarian adventure bikes, this is classy with exemplary quality finish and some beautiful touches. So nice you will be reticent to take it off road and get it dirty! Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE

More power and torque

It is also the brawniest of the 1200 water-cooled Bonneville models with the high-torque engine from the Bobber, but using a single throttle body that gives it 14Nm more torque and almost as much power as the high-power engine from the Thruxton R.

The Scrambler 1200 XE and XC are far more than just a 900cc Street Scrambler with more cubic capacity.Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE

This is now a multi-purpose bike: an adventurer, a stylish retro, a sports tourer, a capable commuter and a naked streetfighter.

It will tour tarmac and dirt roads in comfort and ease all day long with long gaps between refills thanks to the super-efficient engine and bigger 16-litre tank.

It’s also a lot more expensive at $21,700 (plus on-road costs) for the off-road-oriented XE and $20,300 for the more road-tame XC version at $20,300.

Scrambler 1200 XC and XE

The XC has five riding modes and the XE adds Off-Road Pro that turns off traction control and ABS to use a special off-road engine mapping.

XE also has cornering traction control and cornering ABS, plus 50mm longer suspension (250mm).

Despite all the tech on board, I love the fact that you can customise the digital instruments so that only the centre screen shows minimal info in digital or analogue format until you press a control button on the left switchblock that reveals all the other comprehensive data on side screens.

It makes you focus your attention on the important things such as revs and speed!

However, you can upgrade with a USB connection under the seat that plugs in your smartphone in a padded cell and allows access on the instrument screen to various apps and Google Maps.

The connector is coming in the next few months for an extra $400.

Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE
Under-seat Smartphone compartment

Manners

What I love about the Scrambler 1200 is the good manners this brawny 1200cc engine displays even around slow-moving traffic.

Fuelling is smooth, reliable and more refined than the other 1200s I have ridden.

This makes it great in traffic, together with the slick-cut gears and wide spread of ratios.Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE

Braking is also much improved with dual Brembo M50 radial Monoblock calipers on 320mm front discs with a 255mm rear disc and twin-piston caliper.

Riding position is upright and neutral with a commanding view of the traffic for safe filtering.

However, the XC has a dizzyingly high 840mm seat height and the XE its stratospheric at 870mm.

I stand 183cm tall and my toes only just touch the ground on the XE.

Out on the highway it gallops along with plenty in reserve in sixth gear and an unstressed feel to engine and riding position.

The seat is comfortable enough for rolling down highways all day.

Dirty businessTriumph Scrambler 1200 XE

Once you get your tyres dirty and stand up on dirt roads, this has a much more natural feel than the Street Scrambler which makes you ride bandy-legged.

Here it also feels less top heavy than other adventure bikes and gives you more control as you flick it around.

Those Ohlins rear shocks provide plenty of traction, control as well as a comfortable ride over the roughest of terrain.Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE

Up front is a Showa unit that also feels good on rough corrugations as well as pushing into tight tarmac corners.

If you can only afford one bike, but don’t want an ugly utilitarian adventure model, the stylish neo-classic Scrambler 1200 is just what you’ve been looking for.

Oliver’s Motorcycles in Brisbane will hold a public launch on Wednesday at 5.30pm.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Type Liquid-cooled, 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel-twin
Capacity 1200 cc
Bore 97.6 mm
Stroke 80 mm
Compression 11:1
Max Power EC 90PS/ 89bhp (66.2kW) @7,400rpm
Max Torque EC 110 Nm @ 3950 rpm
System Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection
Exhaust Brushed 2 into 2 exhaust system with brushed high level silencers
Final Drive X ring chain
Clutch Wet, multi-plate assist clutch
Gearbox 6-speed
CHASSIS
Frame Tubular steel with aluminium cradle
Swingarm Twin-sided, aluminium
Front Wheel Tubeless 36-spoke 21 x 2.15in, aluminium rims
Rear Wheel Tubeless 32-spoke 17 x 4.25in, aluminium rims
Front Tyre 90/90-21
Rear Tyre 150/50 R17
Front Suspension Showa 47mm fully adjustable upside down forks, 250mm travel
Rear Suspension Fully adjustable Ohlins twin shocks with piggy back reservoir, 250mm rear wheel travel
Front Brakes Twin 320mm Brembo discs, Brembo M50 4-piston radial monobloc calipers, ABS
Rear Brakes Single 255mm disc, Brembo 2-piston floating caliper, ABS
Instrument Display and Functions TFT multi­functional instrument pack with digital speedometer, trip computer, digital tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, service indicator, ambient temperature, clock and rider modes (Rain/Road/Sport/Off­road/Off-road Pro/Rider-Customisable)
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS
Width Handlebars 905 mm
Height Without Mirror 1250 mm
Seat Height 870 mm
Wheelbase 1570 mm
Rake 26.9 º
Trail 129.2 mm
Dry Weight 207 kg
Tank Capacity 16 L
FUEL CONSUMPTION
Fuel Consumption 4.9 l/100km (58 MPG)
CO2 Figures EURO 4 Standard: 113g/km

Triumph Scrambler XC 1200 tech specs

Triumph Scrambler 1200 Google GoPro
XC
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Type Liquid-cooled, 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel-twin
Capacity 1200 cc
Bore 97.6 mm
Stroke 80 mm
Compression 11:1
Max Power EC 90PS/ 89bhp (66.2kW) @7,400rpm
Max Torque EC 110 Nm @ 3950 rpm
System Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection
Exhaust Brushed 2 into 2 exhaust system with brushed high level silencers
Final Drive X ring chain
Clutch Wet, multi-plate assist clutch
Gearbox 6-speed
CHASSIS
Frame Tubular steel with aluminium cradle
Swingarm Twin-sided, aluminium
Front Wheel Tubeless 36-spoke 21 x 2.15in, aluminium rims
Rear Wheel Tubeless 32-spoke 17 x 4.25in, aluminium rims
Front Tyre 90/90-21
Rear Tyre 150/50 R17
Front Suspension Showa 45mm fully adjustable upside down forks, 200mm travel
Rear Suspension Fully adjustable Ohlins twin shocks with piggy back reservoir, 200mm rear wheel travel
Front Brakes Twin 320mm Brembo discs, Brembo M50 4-piston radial monobloc calipers, ABS
Rear Brakes Single 255mm disc, Brembo 2-piston floating caliper, ABS
Instrument Display and Functions TFT multi­functional instrument pack with digital speedometer, trip computer, digital tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, service indicator, ambient temperature, clock and rider modes (Rain/Road/Sport/Off­-road/Rider-Customisable)
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS
Width Handlebars 840 mm
Height Without Mirror 1200 mm
Seat Height 840 mm
Wheelbase 1530 mm
Rake 25.8 º
Trail 121 mm
Dry Weight 205 kg
Tank Capacity 16 L
FUEL CONSUMPTION
Fuel Consumption 4.9 l/100km (58 MPG)
CO2 Figures EURO 4 Standard: 113g/km

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com